Leaders of the various international Observer teams from the United Nations, UN; African Union, AU; European Union, EU; ECOWAS and others, on Saturday insisted on close monitor of the 2019 general elections in Nigeria. In a joint statement on the postponement of the 2019 elections by the INEC, the Heads of the international elections observation missions and the United Nations present in Nigeria, took note of the decision of the INEC to postpone the 2019 general elections due to logistical and operational challenges.
While noting that the decision caused disappointment for many, the foreign observers called on all Nigerians to continue to remain calm and supportive of the electoral process as INEC works to implement its new timeline.
They urged INEC to use this time to finalise all preparations and ensure that the new election dates are strictly adhered to. They encouraged INEC to provide regular updates and information to the public on its preparations in the coming days and weeks to enhance confidence and trust in the process.
“As we continue to closely observe preparations across the country, we stand in solidarity with the people of Nigeria in their desire for credible and peaceful elections,” they declared.
The groups that were parties to the joint statement include:
1. Economic Community of West African States Election Observation Mission – Her Excellency Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Former President of Liberia
2. African Union Election Observation Mission – His Excellency Hailemariam Desalegn, Former Prime Minister of Ethiopia
3. Commonwealth Observer Group – His Excellency Dr Jakaya Kikwete, Former President of the United Republic of Tanzania
4. Electoral Institute for Sustainable Democracy in Africa Election Observation Mission – His Excellency Rupiah Banda, Former President of Zambia
5. European Union Election Observation Mission – Maria Arena, Belgian Member of the European Parliament
6. National Democratic Institute/International Republican Institute Election Observation Mission – His Excellency Festus Mogae, Former President of Botswana and Her Excellency Vaira Vīķe-Freiberga, Former President of Latvia
7. Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, Ambassador Boubakar Adamou, Director of African Political Affairs
8. United Nations Special Representative of the Secretary-General for West Africa and the Sahel, Dr. Mohamed Ibn Chambas